Students Make Biodegradable Plastic From Fish Guts: One Cod Can Make 1,400 Bags

Lucy Hughes, a 23-year-old student at the University of Sussex, has developed Marinatex, a bioplastic made from organic fish waste and red algae.While fish entrails may leave most people feeling queasy, one creative student has used the scraps to create a new plastic substitute.

The new plastic is translucent and flexible, making it perfect for use as an alternative to disposable packaging.And while it looks and feels like plastic, the new alternative is actually stronger, safer and more sustainable, Hughes said.

"To me, Marinatex represents a commitment to material innovation and choice, incorporating the values of sustainability, locality and recycling into the design," Hughes said.

Marinatex degrades after four to six weeks, and surprisingly, it requires very little consumption to produce at low temperatures, with a single Atlantic cod producing up to 1,400 bags.

For her invention, Ms Hughes has been awarded the UK's James Dyson Design Award and will receive £2,000.She will now go into international competition for the chance to win £30,000.